Why Taping Is An All Important Task

Taping is an art form. It must be precise and requires a good deal of patience before an interior painting occurs. This step simply cannot be rushed; it can make or break a paint job.

Any painting contractor will tell you that buttressing the tape right against the baseboard protects the floor and creates a sort of seal, so the paint doesn't seep through. One additional tip here: Before you tape the floor, cut the drop cloth to size and place it on the floor. Tape the corners down and then work your way around the room, sticking the tape to the plastic and then to the floor.

At this point, if you haven't swept the floor, the tape won't stick. Stop right there and get the broom and dustpan. Complete a clean sweep of the baseboard area and then resume taping.

When you get to a doorway, grab some newsprint and lay it down. Give yourself at least a one-foot buffer of sorts, so any splatter that plummets downward has a splash zone.

Glass Panes Require Additional Attention

This same approach should be used when taping windows, and there can be no space between the edge of the tape and the window's molding. This is essential and requires top-of-the-line tape to prevent seepage.

You can protect the windowpane in several ways. Like you did when taping and sealing the floor, cut plastic to size or use newsprint. [NOTE: When it comes time to remove this protective layer, be sure to wait until the paint is dry, otherwise you'll be dealing with pesky smears.]

Give Everything A Once-Over Before You Open The Paint Can

Once you've finished taping everything that requires taping, and yes, there's a lot, that's why you purchased so much of it, go back and press down on the tape. If you run your hand along the edge of the baseboard or window, be sure to wear gloves to avoid splinters and those annoying knicks that always seem to show up on your fingertips.